Do you know what foods your toddler should avoid/limit?

Did you know that between the ages of 1 and 3 years your toddler will gain a staggering 40% in height and weight? Although they may be growing fast and becoming little people, remember they are not mini adults! So there are still some foods that you should limit in their diet.

Salt — should be limited in your toddler’s meals. The maximum amount of salt that 1-3 year olds should be getting is 2g per day, which is less than half a teaspoon! Don’t add salt into foods as they may already contain hidden salt and take out a portion of any family meals for your toddler before adding salt.

Processed foods — should be limited as much as possible. This includes fish fingers, chicken nuggets, frozen pizza or chips, frozen burgers and ready meals. These can all be high in fat and salt. Fresh foods such as fillets of fish, chunks of fresh chicken or homemade burgers are better options.

Whole or chopped nuts and popcorn — should not be given under the age of 5 as there is a risk of choking.

Raw eggs — or foods made with raw eggs such as mousse should be avoided as they can contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning.

High mercury foods — should be avoided in toddlers’ diets. Although these aren’t something that would be very common in toddlers’ or Irish diets – shark, marlin and swordfish are the fish to avoid! Tuna also contains some mercury so fresh tuna should be eaten no more than once per week or tinned tuna no more than twice per week.

If you have any more questions on your toddlers diet, speak to one of our Careline advisors on 1800 570 570.

About the Author

Jennifer

Mum of three (ages 5, 2 and 1year!) so it’s a busy, but fun house.
A qualified nutritionist who has been working for C&G Babyclub for the past 8 years- life is hectic, always on the run and hard work, but the smiles, giggles make it all worth it!